The Western became a popular movie genre as America’s industries and urban areas experienced significant growth. The genre showed a simpler view of the country. People could own a parcel of land, pack up and move west, and work with their hands under the open skies.

Contemporary and revisionist westerns have also become more popular in recent years. Revisionist westerns show a nuanced view of the Old West, and contemporary westerns often portray an anti-hero struggling with his place in a civilized world.The whole story can be found at http://www.wired.com/underwire/2011/04/favreau-cowboys-aliens/ These two styles have increased in popularity as omnipotent media covers all of the sides of domestic and international news stories.

Other movie genres such as action and science fiction have borrowed certain elements from westerns. For example, the high noon standoff is a favorite scene for moviegoers.

The confrontation between the hero and antagonist is something that moviegoers may not be able to do in their lives. For example, a confrontation between a moviegoer and his boss would probably not end well for the moviegoer. However, he can live vicariously through the experience in the movie.

Because America continues to rely heavily on cities and industries, Americans will continue to enjoy Westerns’ portrayal of simpler times.